Desert Island Discs Roula Khalaf, journalist
46 snips
Mar 22, 2026 
Roula Khalaf, the Financial Times editor who reported across the Middle East, reflects on growing up in Beirut and becoming a foreign correspondent. She recalls music tied to key life moments, reporting in conflict zones, newsroom leadership and the challenges facing journalism today. Short, personal stories mingle with vivid memories and chosen songs.
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Witnessing Mubarak's Fall Felt Exhilarating
- The fall of Hosni Mubarak in 2011 felt 'exhilarating' to Roula Khalaf as she and colleagues walked to Tahrir Square to celebrate late at night.
- She describes music, flowers and a surreal hug between children and the military as the unimaginable becoming real.
Gender Gave Unique Reporting Access In Saudi Arabia
- As a woman reporter in Saudi Arabia Roula Khalaf could access women's worlds that male reporters could not.
- She used that access to report nuances on Saudi society during earlier, more closed periods.
Khashoggi's Credibility Made Him A Target
- Jamal Khashoggi was admired by Roula Khalaf for deep knowledge of Saudi society and credible English commentary, which made him a perceived threat.
- She learned of his disappearance via a journalist contact and watched news unfold on Twitter.
